Everyone deserves a little pampering every now and then, and with all the Cape Town wellness options, where should one go? As a local tour guide and writer I’m often asked for my top recommendations, so here is my coveted Top 4 list.
1. The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa
Considering by many as one of South Africa’s most spectacularly located hotels, the 12 Apostles rests at the base of the famous Atlantic Seaboard mountain range, staring proudly over the ocean. Surrounded by fynbos, what better place for a massage than in a mountainside-gazebo in the Table Mountain World Heritage site. In this enchanting setting, I had one of the best Hot Stone Massages I’ve ever had.
Your massage also comes with the use of the spaces at the spa itself – an almost magical underground complex adjacent to the hotel. Three pools of differing temperatures offer you the chance to unwind, along with a relaxation room and a snack bar. I’d recommend you end of the treatment with a cocktail or even High Tea at the Leopard bar in the hotel. More details on the spa are available here.
2. The Westin
Situated at the top of the impressive Westin hotel, sits the 19th-story Heavenly Spa, with unrivalled views of the city. A longtime favourite of mine, and for this visit I was going to try the ‘Secret Lunch Hour’ experience. Included in the offering is a 45-minute massage of your choice and a two-course mouth-watering meal from the adjacent ON19 restaurant. Come hungry, as the portions are generous, and you’ll sit equally spellbound by the views whilst dining. Complimentary valet parking is included, and all this for R725.
Further to the exceptional massages on offer, most treatments include complimentary use of the spa facilities, which include a jacuzzi, lap pool, sauna and steam room – all with panoramic Mother City views. I usually extend my stay by two or three hours for an extensive R & R experience that takes in all of the facilities. There are monthly specials to watch out for here, including dinner options. You can view the full treatment list and other spa info online here.
3. The Silo Hotel
One of the newest additions to Cape Town’s skyline is the Silo Hotel, and has very quickly carved out a rather generous space in the hearts of most Capetonians. It’s architectural ingenuity, and waterfront positioning make it a must visit. Although a stay at the exclusive Silo will most likely be out of reach for most South Africans, several experiences are available to locals so we don’t have to feel left out. One of these is a visit to the in-house spa, and I couldn’t resist stopping by.
Within minutes of arriving, I felt like royalty. Here the usual towels used for massages wouldn’t cut it. Rather you’re invited to relax between fine cotton sheeting. My treatment was the Desert Crystal Massage, which combines aromatherapy, acupressure and reflexology techniques, and is aimed at boosting energy levels and stimulating the immune system. A tea ceremony, featuring Ishalo Comet tea, is a delightful way to end off your treatment. Check out their regular specials (some involve rooftop cocktails), and the treatment list and spa information is here.
4. Steenberg Spa
If you’re needing to escape the city for a more tranquil option, look no further than the stunning Steenberg Spa in the Constantia Valley. Attached to the Steenberg Hotel, and only a 25-minute drive from the city, you’ll quickly unwind on the premises of one of the oldest farms in the country. My 90-minute Stress Relief treatment was the perfect option, leaving me de-stressed and fully relaxed.
Since I was already on Steenberg Farm – Cape Town’s premier MCC producer – I finished off my massage with a bubbly tasting, sampling 4 of their exceptional offerings. At the Bistro 1682, Chef Kerry Kilpin’s tapas are sublime and well paired for this decadent Winelands outing. See the various spa offerings here online.